Three consecutive times, the Lord commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous. Joshua 1
God does not partner with the weak and cowardly.
The conquest of the Promised Land required firmness of character and determination.
And isn’t it the same when it comes to taking possession of the Kingdom of Heaven?
Jesus teaches that the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. Matthew 11.12
Religious feelings are the weapons of the weak, because what warrior dares go to war with a violin in hand?
As the Salvation of the soul demands obstinacy, so does the conquest of God’s promises.
God chose Abraham because He knew that between listening to His Voice or the voice of his heart, He would not hesitate to obey Him.
Now it was Joshua’s turn.
Be strong and of good courage, for tot his people you shall divide as an inheritance the land… Joshua 1.6
God is spirit, not soul.
For this reason, feelings of the soul (heart) are not valid in a relationship with Him.
He counts on people who use reason and decide to listen and practice His Word.
It’s not easy.
It is not easy because this requires confrontation with the demands of the soul’s feelings.
Therefore, He only counts on the strong and brave.
People who use their reason instead of their heart.
People that are willing to risk their all for the All of God.
People that are defined in faith, determined with what they want and obstinate with their ideals.
This is the definition of being strong.
Courage, however, requires standing in the frontline of the battle, regardless of the circumstances.
This is perseverance.
God cannot count on followers.